Install Switches and Wire Connections
At 0:05 in
creative stuff. #outdoorlighting
What happens here
The video shows electrical wiring connected to the switch boxes. Before beginning any electrical work, **turn off the power at the main circuit breaker**. Install the outdoor-rated toggle switches into the weatherproof boxes. Route outdoor-rated electrical wiring (such as UF-B cable for direct burial or THHN/THWN wire in conduit) from the main power source to the switch boxes, and then from the switch boxes to the outdoor lighting fixtures. Make all necessary electrical connections inside the boxes: connect the incoming hot wire to one terminal of the switch, and the outgoing wire to the light fixture to the other terminal. Ensure all ground wires are properly connected and secure all connections with weatherproof wire nuts. Seal any unused openings in the box with appropriate plugs or sealant to maintain weatherproofing.
Goal: Complete the electrical wiring of the switches to the power source and lights.
Tools and materials
- Conduit — Protecting outdoor wiring
- Outdoor-Rated Electrical Wire Southwire — Carrying power to and from the switches and lights
- Outdoor-Rated Toggle Switches — Controlling the outdoor lights
- Screwdriver Set — Connecting wires to switch terminals and tightening screws
- Voltage Tester Klein Tools — Verifying that electrical circuits are de-energized
- Wire Strippers/Cutters — Stripping insulation from wires and cutting wires to length
- Electrical Tape 3M — Insulating and protecting electrical connections
- Silicone Sealant GE — Sealing around wire entries and box covers for weather protection
- Weatherproof Wire Nuts Ideal — Securing electrical wire connections and providing weather protection